Rare display of mainland media defiance of censorship
This week's acts of defiance against censors are seen as defining moments for press freedom, but few expect significant change any time soon
For those who pinned high hopes on a new generation of Communist Party leaders, the winter of suffocating media control has come too soon.
Although the controversy was tempered after new Guangdong party boss Hu Chunhua stepped in to avert a full-blown crisis, it has raised doubts about whether the new leadership is ready to deliver on its commitment to change.
Analysts say the show of defiance by usually tame mainland journalists highlights a worsening picture for press freedom and a dilemma as Xi and his colleagues struggle to balance change and stability.
"The row at the Southern Weekly has evolved into an unexpected, crucial test of the new leadership," said political analyst Chen Ziming .
Rising star Hu was widely praised for his shrewd handling of the row, averting an all-out confrontation as staff threatened to strike.
Details of the deal between the Guangzhou-based newspaper and the authorities remain sketchy, as does the fate of the man at the centre of the row, Guangdong propaganda chief Tuo Zhen .